EThekwini Municipality has declared war against those who dump illegally. A well-known Durban sports clothing company has been given a fine after staff were caught dumping illegally in the Durban CBD.
On Thursday, eThekwini Municipality said officials penalised Simjees Lifestyle and Sportwear.
“The culprits responsible for regular illegal dumping on the corner of Cross and David Webster Street in the central business district had eluded city officials for a while. However, the diligence and hard work of Metro police paid off today when the culprits were caught red-handed. They were issued with a R5 000 fine,” the city said in a media statement.
Meanwhile, the battle in Phoenix is ongoing. Another resident was served with a fine of R5000 for illegal dumping on Friday – this after two males were caught and fined just last week for dumping. Law-enforcement officers from Metro and eThekwini Parks, Leisure & Cemetries caught two males dumping trash at a popular dumping site in Phoenix. More incidents of illegal dumping are currently under investigation.
These fines are in line with the city’s nuisances and behaviour in public places by-law. The by-law clearly states that dumping waste in such a manner that it detracts from the cleanliness of a public place or which causes a nuisance, is prohibited. This by-law applies to the whole area which falls within the eThekwini Municipal boundaries.
This comes as a stern warning to residents and visitors to Phoenix, as well as the greater Durban metropolitan, that littering and dumping of trash is a criminal offence. Law enforcement officers, officials and members of the community are on the lookout for those who are constantly dumping trash. “We will do everything in our power to ensure that offenders are punished”, said Metro Colonel Marcus Moodly. “We urge members of the community to report illegal dumping so that we can work together towards a safe and clean city”. Residents can report illegal dumping to the following departments:
Metro: 031 361 0000
Parks, Leisure & Cemeteries: 031 322 1530
Cleansing & Solid Waste: 031 311 8804/36
Zoé Pillay – Safe Cities Media